Pupus That Make You Go Wahoo

Owner Stephanie Gambetta likes to say the food at Wahoo’s Fish Taco is fuel for your day. Unlike others offering somewhat similar menu options, Wahoo’s forgoes the heavy ingredients in favor of lighter options that leaves the diner satisfied without feeling the need to hibernate. A good example of this is Wahoo’s Baja Rolls ($6.59).

The rolls are made with minced chicken, spinach, cream cheese and salsa and rolled in a fresh flour tortilla, which is chilled then sliced. Served with Roasted Pepper Cilantro sauce, made with roasted Anaheim peppers and blended with secret ingredients, the dish, as Gambetta says, is light and flavorful, and no question, fresh. The sauce is one of three options at the Ward Centre and Kahala Mall eateries that includes Mr. Lee’s Aioli, a sweet and spicy sauce, and a traditional ranch dressing.

Another example of the ordinary made healthier is Nachos made with Jack and Cheddar cheese, and black and spicy white beans. The beans are boiled for three hours with a mixture of herbs and spices and makes a nice alternative to traditional refried beans. You also can add fish, chicken, shrimp, grilled steak and kalua-style pork.

Gambetta says you won’t find better taquitos in town. I have to admit I haven’t, yet, tried every available option in town, but she’s right in touting the tastiness of Wahoo’s Taquitos ($6.59). The beef, chicken, pork or fish taquitos are made fresh daily with sauteed peppers, onion, spices and served with salsa, guacamole and sour cream. One note about the salsa — awesome! It’s fresh with just the right amount of kick, and perfect with just about anything on the menu or even by itself. Seriously, we ate it right out of the bowl.

In addition to tasty pupus, Wahoo’s adds value with its monthly food and drink specials. This month the cheese quesadillas are priced at $5.50 and the John Daly, organic Shangri La Ice Tea, lemonade and vodka, cost $5. Also, Tuesdays is Taco Tuesdays with $2 soft tacos and $2 Primo beer. Wednesday is keiki day with balloon animals and free food with the purchase of an adult meal. All that plus live music and the crispy Sweet Maui Onion Rings made with a beer batter for $4.69.